Tips on What to Do After Fires

Unfortunate incidents like fires can have severe implications. They can not only result in property losses, but worse, in human injuries and even deaths. When a fire incident is improperly handled, the effects can get aggravated. Here are some tips on what you can do after a fire:

Close down and secure the property.

Limit damage to the property by setting up barriers around it, or around destroyed and exposed areas. Make a list of all the damages, and ensure that the property is safe from vandals and thieves.

Contact your landlord, insurance company, or mortgage lender.

Inform these entities about the incident. Make sure to review their policies, and get clarification on issues that may be confusing. Arrange any needed paperwork and other requirements. If necessary, continue paying premiums and dues to avoid conflicts later on.

Request a fire incident report.

You can request for an incident report from your local fire department, which will require a fee. The fire department issues several types of reports, including a basic incident report for an official record and narrative, and an investigative and arson report that require more extensive investigations.

Consult a fire injury lawyer.

If you believe the fire may have started due to the negligence or intentional acts of others, get legal advice from an accident lawyer immediately. Experienced in fire incidents and arson, these lawyers can help in identifying liabilities in your case, and getting the appropriate entities to take responsibility.